The Best Drones Under 250g for 2026
- 2BIG Team
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Looking for a hassle-free gateway to aerial storytelling? Choosing an ultra-lightweight drone under 250g is the smartest way to bypass heavy regulations. Let's dive in with the most realistic review from 2BIG Production, an experienced production company!
Key Takeaways
Key Features | DJI Mini 4 Pro | DJI Flip | Autel Evo Nano+ |
Vertical Filming, QuickShots | Enclosed propellers, GPS, and Obstacle Avoidance | 4K video, noise reduction, video in low light conditions | |
Price | $759 with RC-N2 $959 with RC 2 $1,099 Fly More Combo with RC 2 $1,159 Fly More Combo Plus with RC 2 | $759 with RC-N3 $639 with RC 2 $779 Fly More Combo with RC 2 | $949 (+$150 for Premium Bundle) |
Image Sensor | 1/1.3-inch CMOS | 1/1.3-inch CMOS | 1/1.28-inch CMOS |
Image Stabilization | 3-axis gimbal + EIS | 3-axis gimbal + EIS | 3-axis gimbal |
Zoom | 1-3x, up to 4K/60p 4x, up to 1080p/60p | 4K: 3x FHD: 4x 2.7K vertical pickup: 3x FHD vertical pickup: 4x 12 MP photo: 3x | Up to 16X digital zoom |
Video Resolution | 4K | 4K | 4K |
Image Resolution | 48MP | 48 MP | 48 MP |
Camera Features | 10-bit D-Log M, Vertical, HDR | 10-bit D-Log M, Dual Native ISO Fusion | RYYB Sensor, Millisecond autofocus (PDAF + CDAF) |
Flight Time | 34 min (under 250g) 45 min (a heavier battery, increasing the Mini 4 Pro's weight to >250g) | Up to 31 min | 28 min |
Flight and Camera Modes | Tripod, Normal, Sport. ActiveTrack 360, MasterShots, Waypoints | Tripod, Normal, Sport, Panorama, QuickShots, Hyperlapse, Orbit | Single Shot, Burst, HDR, AEB, Timed, and Panoramic |
Safety Features | Omnidirectional obstacle sensing | GPS, forward and downward obstacle avoidance | Built-in obstacle avoidance |
Why Choosing Drones Under 250g?
Drones under 250 grams have to follow fewer regulations.
Drones don’t necessarily have to be under 250 grams. However, many countries in the world have separate regulations for drones under 250 grams, which is the reason why bringing a mini drone on your journey can keep you away from many registrations and paperwork.
For example, in the US, if your device is less than 250 grams, it means:
No FAA registration required
No Remote ID requirement
A similar case applied in Vietnam, according to Vietnam Drones Regulations, if you are a tourist, you will still need to declare your drone at customs and have a local guarantor for your flight; however:
No pilot license required
No flight permit from the Vietnam Ministry of Defense
For detailed information, take a look at our latest drone law article update in Vietnam:
And in many other countries, sub-250g drones can even fly in situations usually restricted to heavier drones — such as flights over people or beyond visual line of sight.
Mini drones are safer.
If you are interested in knowing the motives behind dividing drones due to weight, we also have an answer for you: Small drones are safer. Their lower mass means less kinetic energy in the event of a crash, reducing risk to people and property.
The threshold is not arbitrary. In 2015, aviation experts from the FAA of the United States used formulas for energy and velocity to determine that drones under this weight posed significantly less risk, setting the benchmark for today’s safety rules.
The Best Drones Under 250g.
Best Overall Drone: DJI Mini 4 Pro
The DJI Mini 4 Pro remains the most powerful tool in the sub-250g category. Its standout feature is the omnidirectional obstacle sensing, a massive safety leap from previous generations that provides 360-degree protection in complex environments. While it carries a premium price tag of $759, its ability to serve both beginners and seasoned professionals makes it a versatile investment.
However, the price of $759 is a little bit higher than the average price on the market. The flight time can be extended to 45 minutes with the extra battery purchase. Not only pushes the price higher, but it also makes the weight limit exceed 250 grams.
Therefore, if you plan for long-term usage, DJI can be the choice for beginners and pros, and if you are not sure yet about your investment in drones, consider the options below.
Best Drone for Beginners: DJI Flip
For those prioritizing portability and a "set-and-forget" experience, the DJI Flip is the ideal companion. Its unique foldable full-coverage propeller guard makes it incredibly safe for hand-launches and close-quarters filming. While its compact size means it lacks the advanced wind resistance of the Mini 4 Pro, its 1/1.3-inch sensor still delivers stunning 4K/60fps HDR footage—perfect for influencers and travel bloggers.
Autel Evo Nano+
If you prefer to stay outside the DJI ecosystem, the Autel Evo Nano+ is the strongest contender. One doesn't need to create an account with Autel in order to fly any of its drones. Compared with drones weighing less than 250 grams, the Nano+ stands out for its performance in low-light conditions. It also offers new features for a drone in this range, such as obstacle detection and subject tracking.
If you’re looking for an alternative to DJI, then the Nano+ could well be the drone for you.
Hope our experience can help you in choosing the right flying fellow. If there are any drones or filming equipment that you are curious about, leave us a comment!